check transmission fluid FORD ESCAPE 2004 1.G Owners Manual

Even when the ABS is disabled,
normal braking is still effective. (If
your BRAKE warning lamp
illuminates with the parking brake
released, have your brake system
serviced immediately.)
Parking brake
To set the parking brake (1), pull
the parking brake handle up as far
as possible.
The BRAKE warning lamp will
illuminate and will remain
illuminated until the parking brake
is released.
To release, press and hold the button (2), pull the handle up slightly,
then push the handle down.
Always set the parking brake fully and make sure that the
gearshift is securely latched in P (Park) (automatic
transmission) or in 1 (First) (manual transmission).
STEERING
To prevent damage to the power steering system:
•Never hold the steering wheel at its furthest turning points (until it
stops) for more than a few seconds when the engine is running.
•Do not operate the vehicle with a low power steering pump fluid level
(below the MIN mark on the reservoir).
If the power steering system breaks down (or if the engine is turned
off), you can steer the vehicle manually, but it takes more effort.
If the steering wanders or pulls, check for:
•an improperly inflated tire
•uneven tire wear
•loose or worn suspension components
!
BRAKE
12
!
BRAKE
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when you are driving over sand, apply the accelerator slowly and avoid
spinning your wheels. If the vehicle does slide, steer in the direction of
the slide until you regain control of the vehicle.
If the transmission, transfer case or front axle are submerged in water,
their fluids should be checked and changed, if necessary.
Driving through deep water may damage the transmission.
If the front or rear axle is submerged in water, the axle lubricant should
be replaced.
After driving through mud, clean off residue stuck to rotating driveshafts
and tires. Excess mud stuck on tires and rotating driveshafts causes an
imbalance that could damage drive components.
“Tread Lightly” is an educational
program designed to increase public
awareness of land-use regulations
and responsibilities in our nations
wilderness areas. Ford Motor
Company joins the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land
Management in encouraging you to help preserve our national forest and
other public and private lands by “treading lightly.”
Driving on hilly or sloping terrain
Although natural obstacles may make it necessary to travel diagonally up
or down a hill or steep incline, you should always try to drive straight up
or straight down.Avoid driving crosswise or turning on steep
slopes or hills. A danger lies in losing traction, slipping sideways and
possibly rolling over. Whenever driving on a hill, determine beforehand
the route you will use. Do not drive over the crest of a hill without
seeing what conditions are on the other side. Do not drive in reverse
over a hill without the aid of an observer.
When climbing a steep slope or hill,
start in a lower gear rather than
downshifting to a lower gear from a
higher gear once the ascent has
started. This reduces strain on the
engine and the possibility of stalling.
If you do stall out, Do not try to
turnaround because you might roll
over. It is better to back down to a
safe location.
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SERVICE RECOMMENDATIONS
To help you service your vehicle:
•We highlight do-it-yourself items in the engine compartment for easy
location.
•We provide a scheduled maintenance guide which makes tracking
routine service easy.
If your vehicle requires professional service, your dealership can provide
the necessary parts and service. Check yourWarranty Guide/Owner
Information Guideto find out which parts and services are covered.
Use only recommended fuels, lubricants, fluids and service parts
conforming to specifications. Motorcraft parts are designed and built to
provide the best performance in your vehicle.
PRECAUTIONS WHEN SERVICING YOUR VEHICLE
•Do not work on a hot engine.
•Make sure that nothing gets caught in moving parts.
•Do not work on a vehicle with the engine running in an enclosed
space, unless you are sure you have enough ventilation.
•Keep all open flames and other lit material away from the battery and
all fuel related parts.
Working with the engine off
•Automatic transmission:
1. Set the parking brake and shift to P (Park).
2. Turn off the engine and remove the key.
3. Block the wheels.
•Manual transmission:
1. Set the parking brake, depress the clutch and place the gearshift in 1
(First).
2. Turn off the engine and remove the key.
3. Block the wheels.
Working with the engine on
•Automatic transmission:
1. Set the parking brake and shift to P (Park).
2. Block the wheels.
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Maintenance and Specifications
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4. Check the fluid level in the
reservoir. It should be between the
MIN and MAX lines. Do not add
fluid if the level is in this range.
5. If the fluid is low, add fluid in small amounts, continuously checking
the level until it reaches the range between the MIN and MAX lines. Be
sure to put the cap back on the reservoir.
BRAKE/CLUTCH FLUID RESERVOIR
Brake and clutch systems are supplied from the same reservoir.
The fluid level will drop slowly as
the brakes wear, and will rise when
the brake components are replaced.
Fluid levels between the “MIN” and
“MAX” lines are within the normal
operating range, there is no need to
add fluid. If the fluid levels are
outside of the normal operating
range, the performance of your
brake system could be
compromised, seek service from your dealer immediately.
TRANSMISSION FLUID
Checking automatic transmission fluid (if equipped)
Refer to your scheduled maintenance guide for scheduled intervals for
fluid checks and changes. Your transaxle does not consume fluid.
However, the fluid level should be checked if the transaxle is not working
properly, i.e., if the transaxle slips or shifts slowly or if you notice some
sign of fluid leakage.
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Automatic transmission fluid expands when warmed. To obtain an
accurate fluid check, drive the vehicle until it is warmed up
(approximately 30 km [20 miles]). If your vehicle has been
operated for an extended period at high speeds, in city traffic
during hot weather or pulling a trailer, the vehicle should be
turned off for about 30 minutes to allow fluid to cool before
checking.
1. Drive the vehicle 30 km (20 miles) or until it reaches normal operating
temperature.
2. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
3. With the parking brake engaged and your foot on the brake pedal,
start the engine and move the gearshift lever through all of the gear
ranges. Allow sufficient time for each gear to engage.
4. Latch the gearshift lever in P (Park) and leave the engine running.
5. Remove the dipstick, wiping it clean with a clean, dry lint free rag. If
necessary, refer toIdentifying components in the engine compartment
in this chapter for the location of the dipstick.
6. Install the dipstick making sure it is fully seated in the filler tube.
7. Remove the dipstick and inspect the fluid level. The fluid should be in
the crosshatch zone for normal operating temperature.
Low fluid level
Do not drive the vehicle if the fluid
level is at the bottom of the dipstick
and the outside temperatures are
above 10°C (50°F).
Correct fluid level
The transmission fluid should be checked at normal operating
temperatures 66°C-77°C (150°F-170°F) on a level surface. The normal
operating temperature can be reached after approximately 30 km (20
miles) of driving.
The transmission fluid should be in
the crosshatch zone if at normal
operating temperature (66°C-77°C
[150°F-170°F]).
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High fluid level
Fluid levels above the crosshatch
zone may result in transaxle failure.
An overfill condition of transmission
fluid may cause shift and/or
engagement concerns and/or
possible damage.
High fluid levels can be caused by an overheating condition.
Adjusting automatic transmission fluid levels
Before adding any fluid, make sure the correct type is used. The type of
fluid used is normally indicated on the dipstick blade and also in the
Lubricant specificationssection in this chapter.
Use of a non-approved automatic transmission fluid may cause
internal transaxle component damage.
If necessary, add fluid in 250 ml (1/2 pint) increments through the filler
tube until the level is correct.
If an overfill occurs, excess fluid
should be removed by a qualified
technician.
An overfill condition of
transmission fluid may cause
shift and/or engagement concerns and/or possible damage.
Do not use supplemental transmission fluid additives, treatments or
cleaning agents. The use of these materials may affect transmission
operation and result in damage to internal transmission components.
Checking and adding manual transmission fluid (if equipped)
1. Park the vehicle on a level
surface.
2. Engage the parking brake fully –
put in first gear.
3. Assure the vehicle cannot move.
4. Clean the filler plug.
5. Remove the filler plug and
inspect the fluid level.
6. Fluid level should be at bottom of
the opening.
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Item Ford Part
Name or
equivalentFord Part
NumberFord
Specification
Power steering
fluidMotorcraft
MERCONAT FXT-2-QDX MERCON
Rear axle
(4X4)
4Motorcraft SAE
80W-90
Premium Rear
Axle LubricantXY-80W90-QL WSP-M2C197-A
Power
Take-off(PTO)
(4X4-Manual
Transaxle)Motorcraft SAE
80W-90
Premium Rear
Axle LubricantXY-80W90-QL WSP-M2C197-A
Power
Take-off(PTO)
3
(4X4-Automatic
Transaxle)Motorcraft SAE
75W-140
Synthetic Rear
Axle LubricantXY-75W140–QL WSL-M2C192-A
Windshield
washer fluidMotorcraft
Premium
Windshield
Washer
ConcentrateZC-32–A WSB-M8B16–A2
1DO NOT USE Motorcraft Specialty Orange Engine Coolant VC-2. Refer
toAdding engine coolant,in theMaintenance and Carechapter.
2Ensure the correct automatic transmission fluid is used. Transmission
fluid requirements are indicated on the dipstick or on the dipstick
handle. MERCONand MERCONV are not interchangeable. DO NOT
mix MERCONand MERCONV. Refer to your scheduled maintenance
guide to determine the correct service interval.
3The Power Take-off(PTO) is lubricated for life with synthetic lube.
Lubricant levels are not to be checked or changed unless a leak is
suspected or repair required. Replace Power Take-off(PTO) lubricant
with specified synthetic lubricant anytime the unit is submerged in
water. Never engage the 4X4 feature while on dry pavement.
44X4 vehicles exposed for prolonged periods to temperatures less than
–40° C (-40° F) should change out the rear axle fluid to Motorcraft SAE
75W-140 Synthetic Rear Axle Lubricant, Ford part number
XY-75W140–QL meeting Ford specification WSL-M2C192–A.
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A
Air bag supplemental restraint
system ............................96–97, 100
and child safety seats ..............98
description ........................97, 100
disposal ....................................103
driver air bag ....................99, 101
indicator light .................100, 102
operation ...........................99, 101
passenger air bag .............99, 101
side air bag ..............................100
Air cleaner filter ...............214, 220
All Wheel Drive (AWD),
driving off road .........................130
Ambulance packages ....................7
Antifreeze
(see Engine coolant) ................196
Anti-lock brake system
(see Brakes) ..............................119
Anti-theft system ........................73
arming the system ....................73
disarming a triggered system ..74
Audio system
Single CD ..................................15
Audio system
(see Radio) ................15, 18, 22, 26
Automatic transaxle
fluid, adding ............................211
fluid, checking ........................211
Automatic transmission
driving an automatic
overdrive .................................124
fluid, refill capacities ..............220
fluid, specification ..................225
Auxiliary power point .................49Axle
lubricant specifications ..223, 225
refill capacities ........................220
B
Battery .......................................194
acid, treating emergencies .....194
jumping a disabled battery ....164
maintenance-free ....................194
replacement, specifications ...220
servicing ..................................194
BeltMinder ...................................92
Brakes ........................................119
anti-lock ...................................119
anti-lock brake system (ABS)
warning light ...........................119
fluid, checking and adding ....211
fluid, refill capacities ..............220
fluid, specifications .........223, 225
lubricant specifications ..223, 225
parking ....................................120
shift interlock ..........................121
Bulbs ............................................39
C
Calculating load ........................143
Capacities for refilling fluids ....220
Cargo area shade ........................55
Cassette tape player .............15, 22
CD-single premium ...............18, 26
Cell phone use ............................54
Certification Label ....................227
Changing a tire .........................158
Child safety restraints ..............104
child safety belts ....................104
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Index
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Child safety seats ..............106–107
attaching with tether straps ..111
in front seat ............................108
in rear seat ..............................108
Cleaning your vehicle
engine compartment ..............181
instrument panel ....................183
interior .....................................184
interior trim ............................183
plastic parts ............................182
washing ....................................180
waxing .....................................180
wheels ......................................181
wiper blades ............................183
Climate control (see Air
conditioning or Heating) ......31–32
Clock adjust
Single CD ..................................15
Clutch
fluid ..................................211, 214
operation while driving ..........127
recommended shift speeds ....128
Console ........................................53
overhead ....................................46
Controls
power seat .................................76
Coolant
checking and adding ..............196
refill capacities ................199, 220
specifications ..................223, 225
Cruise control
(see Speed control) ....................51
Customer Assistance ................149
Ford accessories for your
vehicle .....................................185
Ford Extended Service
Plan ..........................................173
Getting assistance outside the
U.S. and Canada .....................177Getting roadside assistance ...149
Getting the service you
need .........................................171
Ordering additional owner’s
literature .................................178
The Dispute Settlement
Board .......................................173
Utilizing the
Mediation/Arbitration
Program ...................................176
D
Daytime running lamps
(see Lamps) ................................34
Defrost
rear window ..............................33
Dipstick
automatic transmission
fluid ..........................................211
engine oil .................................190
Doors
lubricant specifications ..........223
Driving under special
conditions ..................126, 133, 135
sand .........................................134
snow and ice ...........................136
through water .................134, 141
E
Emergencies, roadside
jump-starting ..........................164
Emission control system ..........208
Engine ........................................225
cleaning ...................................181
coolant .....................................196
idle speed control ...................194
lubrication
specifications ..................223, 225
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I
Ignition ...............................115, 225
Infant seats
(see Safety seats) .............106–107
Inspection/maintenance (I/M)
testing ........................................210
Instrument panel
cleaning ...................................183
cluster ........................................10
lighting up panel and
interior .......................................35
J
Jack ............................................158
positioning ...............................158
storage .....................................158
Jump-starting your vehicle ......164
K
Keys
positions of the ignition .........115
L
Lamps
autolamp system .......................34
bulb replacement
specifications chart ..................39
cargo lamps ...............................35
daytime running light ...............34
fog lamps ...................................34
headlamps .................................34
headlamps, flash to pass ..........35
instrument panel, dimming .....35
interior lamps .....................37–39
replacing bulbs ...................39–43Lane change indicator
(see Turn signal) ........................37
Liftgate ........................................55
Lights, warning and indicator ....10
anti-lock brakes (ABS) ..........119
Load limits .................................141
GAWR ......................................141
GVWR ......................................141
trailer towing ..........................141
Loading instructions .................143
Locks
childproof ..................................66
Lubricant specifications ...223, 225
M
Manual transaxle .......................127
fluid, checking and adding ....213
reverse .....................................128
Manual transmission
fluid capacities ........................220
lubricant specifications ..........225
Mirrors .........................................48
automatic dimming rearview
mirror ........................................48
fold away ...................................51
heated ........................................51
side view mirrors (power) .......50
Moon roof ....................................54
Motorcraft parts ................205, 220
O
Octane rating ............................204
Oil (see Engine oil) ..................190
Overdrive ...................................123
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